A Chinese proverb says that a journey of a thousand miles must begin with the first step.  Equally true is that a journey of a life

time is best traveled in good company.   

I pray that your faith journey is a lifelong adventure and that you will share it with friends of faith, especially those you love the most.

The journey of the magi to see Jesus is a wonderful model for our own spiritual journey in the new year.  The magi left the comfort of home and traveled to new places in their quest to find Jesus.  The magi sought advice from others.  They listened to a dream that warned them to make a course correction.  They walked in the light of the star rather than lurking in the shadows.  A model for us, the magi invested their time, travel and treasure in the journey.  Best yet, the magi paid homage, humbled themselves, before Jesus.  The journey of the magi is a wonderful model for our own journey.

We do not know the number of magi who visited the newborn king, Jesus, we do know they came as a group.   I want to encourage you to travel with others this year.  Let me offer two suggestions.

One opportunity is to attend the Small Group event on Sunday, January 19th at Sugo's in Edwardsville (1/19/2014).  At this event, we will be introduced to small group leaders, hear the vision and dreams of small group life, and have a chance to name the group(s) leader(s) with whom we wish to journey.  Attending the event is not a commitment to join a group, but it is a great way to meet others from church in a casual, fun atmosphere.

A second opportunity is to share Bible study with those you love most - your spouse, significant other, neighbor.  A good article by Karen Holford that addresses issues and presents ideas related to practice of Bible study with another is posted on our website.  The article is called "Spiritual Intimacy".  The article first appeared in the January 2014 issue of Ministry,® International Journal for Pastors, www.MinistryMagazine.org.  We are using it with permission.  

Holford writes, "One of the greatest hindrances to our spiritual intimacy is fear.  And one of the greatest keys to our spiritual intimacy is love, because 'perfect love casts out fear.'" (1 John 4:18 NIV)  Maybe this is the love you will celebrate on Valentine's Day in a few weeks.  Maybe this is the love of a parent and child, or neighbors.  It is a love that helps us discover more about ourselves and God.

A journey of a lifetime is best traveled in good company.  I count First Christian Church as great company for me and my son.  See you Sunday!

~ Dr. Brooks